Best Spinning Reel Under $100

Today, fishing reels are not as expensive as they used to be; it is now possible to get fishing reels from the top brads that go for less than $100. Whether you are undertaking fishing for sport or leisure, you need a good reel to make the experience worthwhile. Always look for a reel that is made of quality materials, but it has to be under the price of $100. When you talk of quality, it is not necessarily about gear ratios and number of bearings. If you have a fishing reel with a gear ratio of 5:1, then you have the best for heavy lure and crank baiting. The lower the ratio, then the lower the exertion that you have to make; this will come useful when you are fishing for a full day. This article will look at some of the best spinning reels for under $100.

What to consider before buying fishing reels

When you want to get the best spinning reel under $100, there are certain considerations that you should bear in kind. Here are some of them:

Smooth drag - It is important that the reel you choose is up to the task of catching the kind of fish that you want. It is therefore important that you get a reel that has minimum jerk, and a smooth drag. With a good responsive drag, you will not lose the bait or break a line as the fish is fighting hard against you. You need to look at the drag of the reel that you want to buy.

Spool size – The larger a spool is the more line it can hold. Most of the best spinning reels under $100 have three to four different spool sizes. Choose the spool size depending on the kind of fishing you want to do, and the length of line that you want to use, and whether the line is braided or single filament.

Number of bearings – The bearings in your fishing reel will have a direct effect on the performance. When you have enough bearing count, you will experience smoother movement of the spool and handle. The reel must have a minimum of 5 bearings for it to be considered as good. The most important bearings to pay attention to are the roller, main handle shaft, main gear, line roller and the anti-reverse bearings.

The kind of materials used – these have a direct implication on the weight of the reel. Most reels are made of aluminum, graphite, plastic, carbon, or a composite of these materials. The carbon, aluminum and graphite reels are strong and light in weight and more durable. Plastic reels have a short life and are used for children’s reels.

Anti-reverse – Without anti-reverse, the reel handle can unwind by accident and possibly cause injury. There is a switch or lever found at the bottom of the bottom of the reel, which you use to activate the anti-reverse feature.

So which are the best spinning reels under $100?

Shimano Spirex RG Spinning Reel

This is one of the most affordable saltwater spinning reels. This is a reel that you can easily operate with one hand due to its ultra-light weight. It is normally taken as the standard reel for bass fishermen.In order to get the most bites from fish, you need a reel such as this one which is easy to cast. There are three different line strengths starting from 2 to 6 pound. It has a rubber grip which is good for handling, even when your hands are wet or slimy.

This is a reel that has back drag and fighting drag options, and you can easily switch between the two. The graphite frame and aluminum spool are resistant to corrosion The Shimano Spirex has great operation, and is durable, making it one of the top spinning reels under $100.

Things We Liked

Things We Didn't Like

The lines tangle a lot

It does not have anti-reverse

Okuma Trio High Speed Spinning Reel

This is one of the top low-cost Okuma fishing reels. The reel has a lot of drag, and can subdue a large fish of 30 pounds and above within a short while. Many fishermen who look for catfish praise this reel for its drag power.

This is a reel that comes with the traditional smooth operation that Okuma is known for. The reel is also quite fast which makes it great for repeated casting. The reel is made from a composite of graphite and aluminum, which makes it strong but light in weight. The downside of this reel is that the gears are made from graphite and tend to jam and wear out quickly.

Things We Didn't Like

Pflueger President Spinning Reel

This is one of the best saltwater spinning reels. There is a wide range of models to choose from. It is praised for its smooth operation during casting and retrieving.

Whether you are a professional fisherman or a novice, you will find a suitable design from this range of fishing reels. Their durability is outstanding, and you will enjoy fishing with the reel for a long time. When you are choosing the Pflueger President Spinning Reel, you should consider the kind of fish that you will be catching. The manufacturer has various designs for different fishing goals. The product number will give you an indication of the type of fish that you can catch with each reel.

Things We Liked

Things We Didn't Like

Most people are not happy with the frame materials

Piscifun Rapid Baitcaster Reels

When it comes to lightweight freshwater reels, the Piscifun Rapid Baitcaster Reel is one of the best; it weighs in at about 7 ounces, and yet it is tough and durable. You can easily cast bait with just a simple flick of your hand. This reel does not require you to make a lot of adjustments when you are using it, making it ideal for novices.

The reel comes with a magnetic braking system, and this helps you in subduing the most powerful freshwater fish. The reel has a smooth “no backlash” operation which anglers love. The only challenge is in the initial setting up of the reel, but once you get it right, you can go ahead a fish in bliss.

Things We Liked

Things We Didn't Like

It easily gets covered in moss and dirt if not taken care of properly

It is a challenge to make the initial drag settings

Penn Battle II Spinning Reel 2000

This is a reel that is designed specifically for freshwater fishing, and can take a punishing with ease. It is quite strong and durable, and can handle large fish with ease. The downside of this reel is that it is heavier than most reels in its category. Despite the heavier weight, it is easy to cast braided lines when you use this reel. Although it is designed for freshwater fishing, it can also be used in saltwater, but it must be cleaned and rinsed thoroughly immediately after use, otherwise it will start to malfunction.

Things We Liked

Things We Didn't Like

It requires constant cleaning and lubrication

In conclusion

There is great competition among manufacturers of fishing reels to provide affordable, but high quality reels to people who would like to enter the hobby or sport. Each individual has their own preferences as to the brand and type of reel that he or she would like to use. The list above has some of the best spinning reels under $100 suitable for freshwater and saltwater fishing. You can purchase one as a backup or main reel with the confidence that you are selecting from the most reliable and high-performing reels.